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Factors To Consider In Non Ductile Buildings Seismic Retrofit

By Jerry Burns


Non-ductile structures are considered to have high fatality numbers during an earthquake. These kinds of structures are characterized by having concrete floors, roofs which are supported by concrete walls and columns. The rigidity form of these structures leads to a limited ability to absorb the shock during an earthquake. Relevant retrofitting measures must be considered to ensure that these buildings can withstand seismic activities. Here are a few methods for non ductile buildings seismic retrofit to be considered.

Consider using the column reinforcing measures. Different materials can be used to strengthen columns which support buildings. This includes reinforcement using carbon fiber, plate winding, aramid fiber and poring reinforced concrete. Aramid and carbon fibers are the best measures to undertake since they are light and do not add weight to the building foundation.

Internal bracing procedure. Structures that have in-built columns supporting floors require internal bracing. This procedure involves the installation of braces that are fixed on the beam and the columns in a cross-sectioned manner. Steel is the best metal to use in such consideration since it is strong and lightweight. The braces can be used as window openings for buildings with low light intensity.

Add reinforced concrete on the wall. Weak walls must be reinforced to ensure that they withstand earthquake shock. This method does not apply to every wall making it less costly and effective. However, it adds the weight on the foundation which can be a disadvantage or advantage according to the weight capacity of the respective base.

Ceiling clipping. This method prevents ceiling collapsing with the installation of earthquake resistance clips. These clips hold the existing ceiling structure on the existing base using conventional methods. The respective clips are engineered to be easily installed and produce an aesthetic appeal at the same time. They are affordable and do not have any significant effect on the construction.

Employ the seismic-isolation process. You can use devices or technology to enhance the capacity of a building using the seismic-isolation procedure. Rubber and lead devices are set at the interim of floors in a story building to absorb the shock produced through seismic activities. Besides that, special devices are placed between two specific rooms and floors to isolate from others to allow free movement during an earthquake.

Check the method used to control the effects of shaking. Various measures require to be considered to reduce the effects of shaking in a building. This includes the use of large water tanks, suspending a mass in the roof, ceiling damping and use of Built-in damping. The built-in damping method uses exterior framing which has dampers which are built-in.

Comply with the regulations provided by construction authorities. Authorities that are responsible for building in areas which are prone to earthquakes have provided regulations related retrofitting measures. It is important to acquaint with them and implement them early enough to avoid the demolition of your building due to non-compliance.




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